Archive: People and Markets

Stockholm: Lawsuit against Royal Coin Cabinet thief

In April we had to report that at least 1,200 objects worth the equivalent of 2.6 million euros had disappeared from the Stockholm Royal Coin Cabinet. A perpetrator is now standing trial. A second one is the subject of ongoing investigations.

Bulgaria Will Adopt the Euro in 2026

The euro area is expanding: On June 4, 2025, the European Central Bank confirmed that Bulgaria meets the requirements for joining the eurozone. This clears the way for the introduction of the euro on January 1, 2026 – provided that preparations can be completed in time.

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How the Romans Made Counterfeits

Counterfeits have been around in ancient Roman times, too – usually, they were cast from a copper-tin alloy. Researchers at the University of Tübingen examined the counterfeiting process and reconstructed it experimentally. A video documents their experiment.

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Full house: before the fair started, the MOC foyer was almost completely full. Photo: Wieschowski.

NUMISMATA’s Key to Success: Keep It Simple!

On the first weekend of spring, the NUMISMATA coin show was held in Munich. The fair attracted thousands of passionate coin collectors who crowded the aisles of the exhibition centre.

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Archive: Coins, Medals and more

Sotheby’s, The One (2nd February 2024), lot 8: The 2nd May 1840 Penny Black Cover. Estimate: $1,500,000 – $2,500,000.

The First Piece of Mail Sent Using a Stamp to Be Offered at Sotheby’s

A Penny Black affixed to a Mulready envelope is among the most valuable items in Philately ever offered at auction. The earliest posted envelope using a prepaid stamp, dating to 1840, will be sold at Sotheby’s with an estimate of $1.5–2.5 million.

Fascinating Change: The 50 State Quarters of the USA – a Milestone

By means of the 50 State Quarters, the US Mint succeeded in rekindling the people’s love of coins and bringing it to the next generation. What was so special about this series? Let’s look back.
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